The Edge -- Published March 19, 2014

We've been hit by the worst drought in many years. Is this any time to think about flooding?

We've been hit by the worst drought in many years. Is this any time to think about flooding?

Of course it is.

And the American Red Cross, like always, is prepared. The timing is right: This is National Flood Safety Awareness Week.

The Red Cross announced its new Flood app to help save lives and reduce losses from floods and flash floods.

The free app for iPhone, iPad and Android smart phone users gives instant access to local and real-time information for before, during and after floods.

The content is available in English and Spanish. The app includes location-based, audible NOAA flood and flash flood watches and warnings - even if the app is closed.

The Flood app, along with the others, can be found in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store for Android by searching for American Red Cross or by going to redcross.org/mobileapps.

"While floods have not been much of a concern in this historic drought, floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States," Kathleen Weis, CEO for the American Red Cross Capital Region, said in a news release. "Flooding has been very common throughout the history of our region. The Red Cross app can help families create emergency plans so all household members know what to do if flooding threatens, and the audible alerts can save lives - even when users are away from a radio or TV."

Other app features:

» One-touch "I'm safe" messaging that allows users to send a message letting family and friends know that they are out of harm's way;